THE MUCH-anticipated opening of a high-end women’s activewear retailer in Ringwood proved to be a blockbuster with “customers literally queuing” around the site to get in.

Cheers could be heard when the Mayor of Ringwood cut the ribbon to officially welcome Sweaty Betty to The Furlong Shopping Centre at 9.30am on Wednesday, May 18.

Hundreds were treated throughout the day to free goodies from local retailers who came together to welcome Ringwood’s new fitness shop – the 62nd Sweaty Betty to open in the UK and the first of its kind anywhere south of London.

Charlie Reed, marketing director at The Furlong, said: “We had a fantastic first day with customers literally queuing around the back of the car park to get into the new store.

Bournemouth Echo: Customers queue for the opening of Sweaty Betty in Ringwood. Picture: Alan Dunkerly PhotographyCustomers queue for the opening of Sweaty Betty in Ringwood. Picture: Alan Dunkerly Photography

“The feedback from customers was extremely positive. It was also great that some of our Furlong retailers like Love to b and Boston Tea Party supported the launch with free giveaways – a perfect demonstration of the Ringwood community spirit.

“The store exceeded their launch day target in terms of turnover predictions.

“We would like to wish all the Sweaty Betty team a very happy home with us.”

Feedback from customers was equally positive, with one visitor telling shopworkers they had travelled from Wimborne just to shop at the site.

Bournemouth Echo: Sweaty Betty store opens in Ringwood. Picture: Alan Dunkerly PhotographySweaty Betty store opens in Ringwood. Picture: Alan Dunkerly Photography

Another customer said: “This is so exciting. I love this brand and usually shop online but it’s so good to see and feel the clothes I’m buying.”

Town mayor councillor Tony Ring told the Echo: “From the town’s perspective, we are very pleased to see established and good quality trading names coming in.

“I think the synergy seen with other local businesses being part of the opening was a great way of showing that new traders will not only be welcomed, but promoted and made to feel part of the community.”

These thoughts were shared by Caroline Scott, Sweaty Betty’s senior vice president of global retail, who previously said: “Ringwood is a delightful, unspoilt historic town with both quaint and modern shops, street entertainment, restaurants, pubs and cafes.”